Bill to ban texting while driving endorsed by House

Rep. G. Bruce Meyers voted for the ban. Reps. Stepahnie Hess, R-Havre, Roy Hollandsworth, R-Brady, and Mike Lang, R-Malta, voted no.

HELENA (AP) — The state House has endorsed a bill that would ban texting while driving.

The House voted 52-48 to endorse House Bill 297 Tuesday. Montana is the only state that does not ban at least some drivers from texting.

Rep. Virginia Court's bill, as amended, would prohibit drivers from using any wireless communications device to write, send or read a written communication while driving on a highway or stopped at a traffic light or stop sign. It does not apply to navigation devices, technology integrated into the vehicle or citizens' band radios. Fines range from $50 to $200.

Supporters say people need to focus on driving. Opponents say it unnecessarily limits freedom.

The bill will need to pass a third vote in the House to move to the Senate.